Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast

Bianca

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I’ll be the first to admit that our weekday mornings can be a whirlwind of chaos. Between getting the kids ready for school, feeding the dog, and trying to find my own matching socks, crafting a wholesome and delicious breakfast often feels like an impossible task. For the longest time, we were stuck in a rut of toast and cold cereal. It was fast, but it wasn’t particularly exciting or satisfying. Then, on a particularly frantic Tuesday, with no bread in the house and only a can of sweet corn staring back at me from the pantry, inspiration struck. I decided to experiment. I grabbed the corn, a splash of milk, a knob of butter, and a pinch of salt, and threw it all in the microwave. The result was nothing short of a revelation. In less than five minutes, I had a steaming, creamy, savory-sweet bowl of goodness that was an instant hit. The kids, who normally turn their noses up at anything new, devoured it and even asked for it again the next day. This Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast has since become our family’s secret weapon for busy mornings—a comforting, surprisingly nutritious, and incredibly versatile meal that proves a fantastic breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Ingredients

This recipe is built on pantry staples, making it an accessible and affordable option for any day of the week. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final creamy and flavorful dish.

  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425g) Sweet Corn: This is the star of the show. Use a good quality canned sweet corn, and be sure to drain it very well to avoid a watery result. The natural sweetness of the corn forms the delicious base of the breakfast. You can also use 1 ½ cups of frozen or fresh corn kernels.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. It helps create a silky texture when melted into the dish. For a different flavor profile, you could use olive oil.
  • ¼ cup Milk or Heavy Cream: The choice between milk and cream depends on your desired richness. Heavy cream will result in a more decadent, velvety texture, while whole milk offers a lighter but still creamy consistency. For a dairy-free version, oat or soy milk works wonderfully.
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt: A small amount of salt is essential. It doesn’t just make the dish salty; it enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances all the flavors, making them more vibrant.
  • ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle, spicy warmth that cuts through the richness of the butter and cream. It provides a subtle savory kick that elevates the dish from simple to sophisticated.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Chopped Chives or Parsley (Optional): While optional, fresh herbs are highly recommended. They add a burst of fresh, bright flavor and a pop of color, making the breakfast feel more special and complete.

Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity. Following these detailed steps will ensure you get a perfectly creamy and delicious breakfast bowl every single time, with minimal effort and cleanup.

Step 1: Prepare the Corn
First, open your can of sweet corn and pour it into a fine-mesh strainer. Allow it to drain completely for a minute or two, gently shaking the strainer to release any excess liquid. This is the most crucial step for achieving a creamy, not watery, consistency. If you are using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it first; you can use it directly from the freezer but may need to add an extra 30-60 seconds to the microwave time. If using fresh corn kernels cut from the cob, you’re ready to go.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, add the well-drained sweet corn. Add the butter (you can place it right on top), pour in the milk or cream, and sprinkle evenly with the salt and black pepper. There’s no need to stir at this point; the ingredients will meld together perfectly in the heat of the microwave. Using a bowl with ample space will prevent any potential bubbling over.

Step 3: Microwave to Perfection
Place the bowl in the microwave. Cook on high power for 2 to 3 minutes. The exact time will depend on the wattage of your microwave. A lower-wattage microwave (under 1000 watts) may require closer to 3 minutes, while a higher-wattage one might be done in 2 minutes. The goal is for the mixture to be steaming hot and the butter to be fully melted. You will hear it sizzling, which is a good sign it’s ready.

Step 4: Stir and Finalize
Carefully remove the hot bowl from the microwave using an oven mitt. The contents will be very hot. Give everything a thorough stir. As you stir, the melted butter and warm cream will emulsify, creating a beautifully creamy sauce that coats every kernel of corn. This is the moment the magic happens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately
If you’re using fresh herbs, stir in the chopped chives or parsley now. The residual heat will release their aromatic oils, infusing the entire dish with a fresh, vibrant flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding another pinch of salt or pepper to your preference. Serve the breakfast corn warm, straight from the bowl.

Nutrition Facts

This dish is not only quick and tasty but also provides a good start to your day. The following nutritional information is an approximation for one serving, assuming the recipe makes two servings.

  • Servings: 2
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal. This provides a solid and satisfying energy source to kickstart your morning without feeling overly heavy.
  • Carbohydrates: This breakfast is a great source of complex carbohydrates from the corn, which are digested slowly, providing sustained energy throughout your morning and helping to prevent a mid-morning slump.
  • Fiber: Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. A breakfast high in fiber helps you feel fuller for longer, curbing snack cravings before lunchtime.
  • Vitamins: Sweet corn contains essential vitamins, including Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and various B vitamins that are vital for energy production and overall metabolic health.
  • Customizable Protein: While the base recipe is modest in protein, it serves as a perfect canvas. By adding toppings like a fried egg, cheese, or bacon bits, you can easily transform this into a high-protein meal to support muscle health and increase satiety.

Preparation Time

One of the most significant advantages of this recipe is its incredibly short preparation time, making it a true champion for anyone with a hectic schedule.

The total time from start to finish is consistently under 5 minutes. This can be broken down into approximately 1-2 minutes of preparation (opening the can, draining the corn, and gathering the other ingredients) and 2-3 minutes of active cooking time in the microwave. It’s a “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” kind of recipe that delivers maximum flavor for minimal time investment, freeing up precious minutes in your morning routine.

How to Serve

This Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast is wonderfully delicious on its own, but it truly shines as a versatile base for a wide variety of toppings and serving styles. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

  • The Classic Comfort Bowl:
    • Serve it as is, hot and steaming in a bowl.
    • Top with extra fresh herbs like chives or cilantro.
    • Add a final crack of black pepper and a small dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy finish.
  • The Protein-Packed Power Breakfast:
    • Transform it into a complete, high-protein meal.
    • Top the bowl of creamy corn with a perfectly fried or poached egg. The runny yolk creates an even richer sauce.
    • Sprinkle with crispy, crumbled bacon or diced breakfast sausage.
    • Add a generous handful of shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese and let it melt into the hot corn.
  • The Southwest Fiesta Bowl:
    • Give your breakfast a zesty, southwestern twist.
    • Mix in ¼ cup of black beans and a tablespoon of your favorite salsa.
    • Top with diced avocado, a spoonful of pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
    • A dash of lime juice and some fresh cilantro will complete the vibrant flavor profile.
  • As a Savory Breakfast Side:
    • Serve a smaller portion alongside other breakfast favorites.
    • It pairs beautifully with scrambled eggs and toast.
    • It can replace traditional hash browns as a side for a full breakfast platter with pancakes or waffles.
  • In a Breakfast Taco or Wrap:
    • Use the creamy corn as a delicious and unexpected filling.
    • Spoon the mixture into warm corn or flour tortillas.
    • Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and a little hot sauce for a hearty and portable breakfast taco.

Additional Tips

To help you perfect this recipe and customize it to your liking, here are eight additional tips for success.

1. Choosing the Best Corn: While canned corn is the quickest, don’t shy away from other options. Frozen corn works exceptionally well and often has a firmer, fresher texture. If fresh corn is in season, using kernels cut straight from the cob will provide the ultimate sweet flavor and crisp bite. Adjust microwave time slightly for frozen or fresh corn.

2. Mastering the Creaminess: The secret to an ultra-creamy texture lies in the fat. For a truly decadent experience, use heavy cream instead of milk. For a tangy twist and extra thickness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or full-fat Greek yogurt along with the butter before microwaving.

3. Spice Up Your Morning: This recipe is a blank canvas for spices. Go beyond salt and pepper. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth, a dash of cumin for an earthy warmth, or a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick to wake up your taste buds.

4. Go Wild with Herbs: Chives and parsley are classic, but other herbs work beautifully too. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, zesty flavor perfect for a southwest-style bowl. Finely chopped dill can offer a unique, fresh tang, while a little bit of thyme can provide a sophisticated, savory note.

5. Meal Prep for Even Faster Mornings: While the recipe is already fast, you can make it even faster. Portion out drained corn into individual microwave-safe containers at the start of the week. In the morning, all you need to do is add the butter and milk and pop it in the microwave. It shaves another minute off the prep time.

6. Know Your Microwave: Microwave wattages vary significantly, which impacts cooking time. The first time you make this, start with 2 minutes. Check the dish; if it’s not steaming hot, add 30-second increments until it is. Also, covering the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel can help trap steam for more even cooking and prevent any splatters.

7. Add a Veggie Boost: Increase the nutritional value by sneaking in some finely chopped vegetables. A tablespoon of finely diced red bell pepper, minced onion, or a handful of fresh spinach can be added to the bowl before microwaving. The veggies will steam-cook perfectly along with the corn.

8. Don’t Overlook the Cheese: Cheese is a fantastic addition. Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano add a salty, nutty flavor. Softer cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy corn dish that is pure comfort food. Add the cheese after microwaving and stir until melted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about this simple yet delicious recipe.

1. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of the microwave?
Absolutely! The stovetop version is just as easy. Simply combine all the ingredients (drained corn, butter, milk/cream, salt, pepper) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes, or until the butter is melted, the mixture is heated through, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Garnish with herbs and serve.

2. Is this Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast actually healthy?
Yes, it can be a very healthy part of a balanced breakfast. Corn itself provides fiber and essential vitamins. By using milk instead of cream, controlling the amount of butter, and loading it up with protein (like an egg) and extra vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers), you can create a highly nutritious, satisfying, and energy-boosting meal.

3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is very easy to adapt for a vegan diet. Simply make the following substitutions: use a plant-based butter or a drizzle of olive oil instead of dairy butter, and replace the milk/cream with a creamy, unsweetened plant-based milk. Oat milk or soy milk are excellent choices as they provide a rich and creamy texture.

4. Can I use fresh corn cut from the cob?
Yes, and it’s a fantastic choice when corn is in season! One large ear of corn will typically yield about ¾ cup of kernels, so you’ll need about two ears for this recipe. No pre-cooking is necessary. Just add the fresh kernels to the bowl with the other ingredients. You may need to add an extra minute to the cooking time to ensure the raw kernels are fully cooked and tender.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 60-90 seconds, stirring halfway through, until hot. The sauce may have thickened, so you can add a splash of milk before reheating to restore its original creamy consistency.

6. My corn came out watery. What did I do wrong?
The most common cause of a watery result is not draining the canned corn thoroughly enough. The liquid from the can will prevent the butter and milk from creating a creamy sauce. Be sure to let the corn sit in a strainer for a minute or two to remove all excess water. Using too much milk can also lead to a thin sauce, so stick to the recommended measurements.

7. What are some kid-friendly variations of this recipe?
Kids love this recipe because of its natural sweetness. To make it even more appealing, you can stir in a handful of shredded mild cheddar cheese to make it “cheesy corn.” You can also serve it with a fun dipper, like whole-grain tortilla chips or toast soldiers. Another popular option is to mix in small pieces of cooked ham or mild sausage.

8. Is this Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. All the core ingredients—corn, butter, milk, salt, and pepper—do not contain gluten. It’s a safe and delicious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Just be sure to check the labels on any processed add-ins, like sausage or spice blends, to ensure they are also certified gluten-free.

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Microwave Sweet Corn Breakfast


  • Author: Bianca

Ingredients

Scale

This recipe is built on pantry staples, making it an accessible and affordable option for any day of the week. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final creamy and flavorful dish.

  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425g) Sweet Corn: This is the star of the show. Use a good quality canned sweet corn, and be sure to drain it very well to avoid a watery result. The natural sweetness of the corn forms the delicious base of the breakfast. You can also use 1 ½ cups of frozen or fresh corn kernels.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. It helps create a silky texture when melted into the dish. For a different flavor profile, you could use olive oil.
  • ¼ cup Milk or Heavy Cream: The choice between milk and cream depends on your desired richness. Heavy cream will result in a more decadent, velvety texture, while whole milk offers a lighter but still creamy consistency. For a dairy-free version, oat or soy milk works wonderfully.
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt: A small amount of salt is essential. It doesn’t just make the dish salty; it enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances all the flavors, making them more vibrant.
  • ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle, spicy warmth that cuts through the richness of the butter and cream. It provides a subtle savory kick that elevates the dish from simple to sophisticated.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Chopped Chives or Parsley (Optional): While optional, fresh herbs are highly recommended. They add a burst of fresh, bright flavor and a pop of color, making the breakfast feel more special and complete.

Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity. Following these detailed steps will ensure you get a perfectly creamy and delicious breakfast bowl every single time, with minimal effort and cleanup.

Step 1: Prepare the Corn
First, open your can of sweet corn and pour it into a fine-mesh strainer. Allow it to drain completely for a minute or two, gently shaking the strainer to release any excess liquid. This is the most crucial step for achieving a creamy, not watery, consistency. If you are using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it first; you can use it directly from the freezer but may need to add an extra 30-60 seconds to the microwave time. If using fresh corn kernels cut from the cob, you’re ready to go.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, add the well-drained sweet corn. Add the butter (you can place it right on top), pour in the milk or cream, and sprinkle evenly with the salt and black pepper. There’s no need to stir at this point; the ingredients will meld together perfectly in the heat of the microwave. Using a bowl with ample space will prevent any potential bubbling over.

Step 3: Microwave to Perfection
Place the bowl in the microwave. Cook on high power for 2 to 3 minutes. The exact time will depend on the wattage of your microwave. A lower-wattage microwave (under 1000 watts) may require closer to 3 minutes, while a higher-wattage one might be done in 2 minutes. The goal is for the mixture to be steaming hot and the butter to be fully melted. You will hear it sizzling, which is a good sign it’s ready.

Step 4: Stir and Finalize
Carefully remove the hot bowl from the microwave using an oven mitt. The contents will be very hot. Give everything a thorough stir. As you stir, the melted butter and warm cream will emulsify, creating a beautifully creamy sauce that coats every kernel of corn. This is the moment the magic happens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately
If you’re using fresh herbs, stir in the chopped chives or parsley now. The residual heat will release their aromatic oils, infusing the entire dish with a fresh, vibrant flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding another pinch of salt or pepper to your preference. Serve the breakfast corn warm, straight from the bowl.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 250